Happy Thursday Critters! Today I’m thrilled to be sharing the work of illustrator Elaheh Taherian, whose debut picture book in the US is written by my lovely and talented friend, Tricia Springstubb. I always love sharing another illustrator’s work— especially one as immensely talented as Elaheh. Her work is filled with rich textures, patterns, and colors— which remind me of Matisse. There is such a playful sensibility in her design and shapes that I love too.
So without further ado, please welcome Elaheh Taherian!
Where do you live?
I live in Brooklyn, New York
When did you know you wanted to illustrate picture books?
When I was a kid I was more interested in illustrations in the picture books than the story. I would read the story several times, look at the pictures over and over again and I would draw next to them to tell my story. I grew up knowing that I love art and drawing and to be an artist. My father really supported me to go to art school. I studied visual art/painting for my undergrad and at some point during this time I remembered how much I loved illustration and storytelling that I’ve forgot about during years.
Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?
I decided to study illustration for my master’s degree. I grew up in Iran and over there in order to get to either grad school and undergrad there is a national wide entry exam. It is so competitive and after you accept in the first round which is the theory exam, there is the second round for drawing and illustration skill tests. I got accepted in one of the top art schools in 2006. in my second semester, I got my first book illustration deal through an art director who was familiar with my work. It was like a dream for me. I was lucky to get to work on an actual project while studying. Also, we had art director critiques visiting the school and I was lucky to meet a great art director who was interested in my works and asked me to meet him. First, he hired me to illustrate for a very great children’s magazine and after several months I had a book contract with the publishing company that he was the art director. This first book with him was so successful and the book “ The Giant Snowman” published in 3 different languages with very great publishers in France, Switzerland, and South Korea. Long story short within 4 years until left Iran in 2010, I already had illustrated 7 children’s books.
After I moved here I did not know anything about publishing here nor I knew anybody. I tried to connect with some people, I did not have much luck. I decided to go to grad school again to build my confidence again probably and learn about the industry here and get to know people. I studied MFA Illustration at the School of Visual Arts. I got to know great people and I received great feedback from teachers and critique guests. After my graduation from SVA, it took me 3 more years to get my first book deal with Candlewick Press and I was lucky to get to illustrate this beautiful story written by great Tricia Springstubb, Khalil & Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures. A story about love and friendship. When I received the offer email I was literally jumping up and down all over my apartment. I also signed my second book deal a month ago with Little Bigfoot.
Can you share a bit about your process?
I usually start with doodles, character study, and so many sketches— that is the most challenging part for me. It might take me days of not working, but focusing on what I really want and thinking and getting inspired.
After I come up with the right sketch, and I am happy with the characters and compositions, I start working on the color palette and the techniques I wanted to use. I usually know what technique I want to use when I read the story but it can change depending on the sketches. After I pass this part, it gets easier and I just enjoy working with colors and the characters.
What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?
There are some times in our life that we feel our mind is blocked and there is no way we can get anything done or we just keep repeating ourselves. At these times, if I’m having trouble with a specific project, I stop it and I start drawing something unrelated to the project— something that I have total freedom in and most of the time through that I get back on track and I come up with my best ideas. Because you think that you don’t think about the project while in your unconscious you are still thinking and reviewing and looking for solutions. Sometimes looking at my old drawing archive helps me to come up with new ideas. Sometimes doing nothing and looking at people through the window or taking a walk can help. Also libraries, art galleries and museums are the best places to be when you need inspiration. To get new ideas sometimes you need a pause and come back fresh.
Anything you can’t live without while you draw?
Freedom of imagination, my plants, and at least 10 cups of Black Tea.
Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?
Marc Chagall’s beautiful works and colors was my first source of inspiration in my art. He is a great story teller and knowing his art changed my view and direction in my work. He also was an illustrator. There are so many great artists and authors who inspire me and it’s hard to put all the names down but I can name some great author and illustrators that I always looked up to like Peter Sis who was my Thesis Advisor in grad school (I feel so lucky), Eric Carle, Tomie DePaola (who we sadly lost last month), and so many more...
Tell us about your new book.
Khalil & Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures written by the great Tricia Springstubb.
I was so lucky to get to illustrate her story. The story is about building a friendship full of love and surprises! The book released on May 26th, 2020. I am so excited about it. It’s my first book in the USA and I am looking forward to sharing it with the world.
What’s up next for you?
My next illustration project is a book I will be working with Little Bigfoot. The story is called Baba’s Gift and is written by two sisters, Ariana and Christina Amini. This book is scheduled for Spring 2022. I am also working on writing and illustrating a new story. Next, is just keep working and getting inspired.
Congrats on your debut book in the US Elaheh! We are thrilled you could join us on Critter Lit today!
ELAHEH TAHERIAN graduated from MFA Illustration as Visual Essay program from School of Visual Arts in New York City with the Paula Rhodes honor award for exceptional achievement in illustration in 2015. Prior to this, she received an MFA degree from Art University in Tehran, Iran 2009. She has illustrated several children’s books and her works have been published in several magazines and featured in many exhibits. Elaheh lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.
FOR MORE INFORMATION about Elaheh, visit her online at www.elahehtaherian.com.
BUY THIS BOOK To purchase a copy of KHALIL AND MR. HAGERTY AND THE BACKYARD TREASURES, click here.
WIN A COPY! Want to win a giveaway copy of Elaheh’s debut book, KHALIL AND MR. HAGERTY AND THE BACKYARD TREASURES, written by Tricia Springstubb?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, June 4th! US addresses only please.